Frank McAvennie: Michail Antonio Jamaica snub ‘brilliant’ for West Ham
We’re delighted to welcome former West Ham United striker Frank McAvennie as our exclusive columnist. Each week he’ll be giving his views on the biggest talking points at the London Stadium…
West Ham United striker Michail Antonio has been left out of the Jamaica squad for their World Cup qualifiers but Frank McAvennie doesn’t mind.
The 31-year-old is one of the nation’s best footballing talents but with qualification for Qatar 2022 out of the window, manager Paul Hall has opted not to take his star man for the final three fixtures.
Perhaps Jamaica could have used Antonio’s pace and power last night as they laboured to a 1-1 draw with El Salvador thanks to a late Andre Gray equaliser.
Ex-Hammers striker McAvennie though thinks this break the 31-year-old is having with a hectic schedule of games fast approaching for his former club.
“It’s brilliant that it’s happened,” McAvennie said exclusively to West Ham Zone. “He’s the top man for Jamaica so they’ve obviously spoken to Moyes who’s said ‘give him a break’.
“I’m delighted that he’s getting a little break to be honest.”
Jamaica still have games against CONCACAF Octagonal leaders Canada and basement nation Honduras this week but they will have to restore some national pride without the Hammers leading man.
Being the only striker at the London Stadium, Antonio has arguably been overworked already this season and it has been a blessing for David Moyes that he hasn’t picked up a serious injury given the huge effort he has put in.
This week is a fantastic chance for him to finally put his feet up for a little while and come back refreshed to fire the Irons to glory in both the Premier League and Europa League.
In other West Ham news, this “brilliant” Hammers squad player could leave the club for just £1million according to the latest reports.
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